5000 benefits under National Health Fellowship Programme in Ogun
The Ogun State Commissioner for Health,Dr Tomi Coker, on Monday, disclosed that no fewer than 5000 residents of the state benefitted from targeted medical outreaches under the National Health Fellowship Programme.
The programme, according to the commissioner is a bold initiative of the Federal Government under the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to strengthen Primary Health Care across Nigeria by raising a new generation of health leaders.
The Commissioner in her remarks at the graduation ceremony of the 1st Cohort of the NHFP and unveiling of the 2nd Cohort, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre,Kuto, Abeokuta, noted that young professionals across all 774 Local Government Areas, were deployed to support service delivery, enhance accountability, drive innovation, and reinforce health systems at the grassroots.
Dr Coker revealed that through the programmes lives were saved, as residents received treatment for malaria, hypertension, and diabetes while essential medicines were distributed free of charge.
“We celebrate what that national vision has become in Ogun State.
“Over the past year, our Fellows have worked diligently across 20 Local Government Areas and nine key thematic impact areas.
“Their work has not been abstract or ceremonial , it has been practical, measurable, and deeply people-centered,” she remarked.
She added that the Fellows participated actively during national campaigns, including the National Immunization Plus Days and the Measles-Rubella vaccination drive served as supervisors, independent monitors, trainers, and mobilizers.
Coker said, “They strengthened cold chain compliance, improved reporting accuracy, and enhanced coverage monitoring across LGAs, ensuring that no child was left behind.
“In maternal and child health, more than 500 women were educated on nutrition, antenatal care, and safe delivery practices.
“Digital innovations such as MamaReach were developed to improve emergency referrals and reduce maternal mortality. These are not just projects, they are lifelines for vulnerable families.”
She said that there are more health challenges associated to climate change, advising the 2.0 cohort to look into the issue and proffer solutions.
“We need to be resilient in building our system. More health challenges are associated to climate change. It is up to you as the next generation to start thinking by providing change,” the commissioner added.
Dr Coker hinted that the newly graduated 20 National Health Fellows would be engaged as third party administrators in the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme, for enlistment of more residents.
Highlight of the programme was the reward of excellence to five outstanding fellows for their impactful projects.
Dr Tayo Lawal, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, said the NHFP, was to bridge the gap between the federal and local governments.
The State Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Dr Folasade Adeyemo, said the programme was put together to strengthen healthcare system at the grassroots.
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Photo caption: Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker with outstanding graduating fellows of the 1st Cohort of the National Health Fellowship Programmme, an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with the State Government, held at the Cinema Hall,Cultural Centre,Kuto, Abeokuta, on Monday
